1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2003 Opel Speedster
To start off, 2003 Opel Speedster is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Speedster (197 HP) has 144 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Speedster weights approximately 40 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Opel Speedster (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2003 Opel Speedster | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Speedster |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2400 mm |
